Comparative Evaluation of Caries Excavation Efficacy of Gentle Hand Bur System and Spoon Excavator in Primary Molars: A Randomized Controlled Study.

INTRODUCTION: Dental caries is a major global health concern, especially among children in low-income regions, where untreated cases can lead to pain, infection, and loss of function. To reduce treatment-related anxiety and discomfort, minimally invasive methods like atraumatic restorative treatment (ART), chemo-mechanical removal, and manual tools such as spoon excavators (SEs) have been developed. These techniques focus on preserving healthy dentin and avoiding the noise and vibration of the airotor handpiece. The Gentle Hand Bur System (GHBS) builds on this approach, offering a quiet, vibration-free alternative aimed at improving comfort and reducing fear in pediatric patients. AIM: This study aims to compare and evaluate caries excavation efficacy and pain perception while using the GHBS and the SE in primary molars. METHODOLOGY: The study was designed as a randomized controlled trial and conducted among children aged four to nine years who required restorative treatment in at least two primary molars. The final sample size consisted of 60 molars, i.e., 30 in each group. Caries removal was done utilizing SE or GHBS, according to the allocated group. The caries removal efficacy was evaluated using a caries-detecting dye, and postoperative pain was assessed using a four-point pain intensity scale. RESULTS: On comparison of the mean values of the SE caries removal score (0.27) and GHBS caries removal score (0.40), the mean values were statistically not significant (p=0.293). Additionally, when the values of the SE pain perception score (1) and GHBS pain perception score (1) were compared, the mean values were statistically not significant (p=1.0). CONCLUSION: When it comes to primary molar caries removal effectiveness and pain perception, the GHBS is on par with the traditional SE.